Shillong, Mar 10: Social activist Cherian Momin has petitioned the Meghalaya government to temporarily “recall” the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) election schedule, citing deteriorating law and order in the region.
In a memorandum to the Commissioner & Secretary, District Council Affairs, Momin highlighted the grave situation, including two deaths in Chibinang due to police firing, arson, and vehicles torched in Tura, prompting a curfew and requests for an army flag march.
Momin urged deployment of additional state and central forces, clarification on the council’s constitutional framework, and a government-facilitated peace dialogue.
He warned that continued polling activity may exacerbate tensions, risking public safety amidst communal tension, destruction, and security restrictions.
The situation has sparked confusion over interpretations of the Sixth Schedule provisions governing autonomous district councils, Momin noted, seeking urgent government intervention.
Meanwhile, Greneth M. Sangma, a social activist from South Garo Hills, has addressed an open letter to prominent Muslim community leaders in the Garo Hills region highlighting the need for communal harmony amidst increasing tensions stirred by online debates and legal disputes regarding the functioning of the GHADC.
The letter was addressed to Rajabala MLA Mizanur Rahman Kazi, former MDC Sofior Rehman, former MLA and MDC Esmatur Mominin, and other community leaders.
Sangma stated that the GHADC operates under Article 244(2) of the Constitution and the Sixth Schedule, which are designed to protect the land rights, culture and governance systems of indigenous tribal communities.
Highlighting legal precedents like the Edwingson Bareh vs. State of Assam (1966) case, which reinforces the validity of tribal rights, Sangma called on community leaders to promote respectful dialogue. He said that inflammatory language, particularly in digital spaces, fosters division instead of unity. He urged leaders to guide the youth towards peaceful coexistence and respect for the laws that uphold the rights of tribal communities.
Further, Sangma said there is a need for cooperation among communities in the Garo Hills to maintain peace and uphold constitutional protection.
